The Many Different Types of Ducks

Different types of ducks are found all over the planet, in fact, ducks are unique creatures that inhabit the far reaches of the earth, with the exception of Antarctica ducks inhabit every place known to mankind. With so many iconic legends such as Daffy and Donald Duck, it's no wonder so many of these cute creatures have waddled their way into the hearts of so many today! Let's take a look at how to identify the different types of ducks around the world.

Diving Duck (Aythyinae) Diving ducks are known because of their ability to dive deep beneath the surface of the water and forage for their food. Some sea ducks also have the ability to dive but are classified under Mergini leaving these guys almost exclusively to freshwater birds. The diving duck is an amazingly strong flier and usually migrates from cold environments in winter.

Dabbling Duck (Anatinae) Are probably the most common duck in the world. They are known for their eating habit, which is dipping their head underwater for food, mainly vegetables but other tasty snacks too. Some dabbling ducks will dive for short periods of time but a majority of their time is spent dipping their heads underwater leaving their hind end and feet sticking above the water like a fishing bobber.

Whistling Duck (Dendrocygninae) Whistling ducks are known for their distinct whistle-like call. These ducks are typically found in flocks perched high up in the trees near tropical areas. There are 8 recognized species of whistling duck although each has its own unique characteristics and plumage, all species have black underwings and a hunched stance. It is hard to tell the difference between the males and females because each species have the commonly have the same color plumage.

Perching Duck (Plectropterinae, Tadorninae, Anatinae, +many unclassified) Perching ducks are commonly found in wetlands nesting high up in trees or perched on branches. Classifying these birds have been somewhat of a challenge over the years because of their morphological traits varying so greatly, overall they typically feed like dabbling ducks from there it gets a bit more complicated with each specific species.

Sea Ducks (Merginae) Almost all species of sea duck live in the far reaches of the northern hemisphere that have developed specialized glands that can tolerate the ocean water. The traits of these ducks depend on the specific breeds IE: the saw-billed ducks eat fish, while other breeds dive for different aquatic life under the sea. The common traits are Salt glands and a separate summer and winter plumage.

Shelduck (Tadorna) Shelducks usually live on land near a water source, they are larger than most ducks about the size of a mid-sized goose. All of these ducks have a defined upper wing pattern and the sexes are colored a bit different in each specific breed. Although shelducks do dabble and dive their diets typically consist of common shore animals and plants.

Domestic Ducks (Anatidae) Domestic Ducks are ducks that were genetically modified by breeding specific traits to accomplish certain goals, IE more eggs, more meat, prettier appearance, etc. Domesticated ducks are raised by people usually on farms or as pets, the ones you see in the wild at local ponds are usually unwanted and dropped off or escapees. These ducks wouldn't last long in a natural setting without human interaction. A more famous Donald Duck was a domesticated Pekin Duck.